Ancylostoma doudenale

Definition

Ancylostoma duodenale is a parasitic nematode, commonly known as the Old World hookworm, that infects the small intestine of humans. It causes significant gastrointestinal distress and anemia due to blood loss.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ancylostoma duodenale larvae penetrate the skin and travel through the bloodstream to reach the lungs before migrating to the small intestine.
2. Infection often results in iron-deficiency anemia due to blood loss from hookworm attachment sites in the intestinal wall.
3. Symptoms of infection include abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
4. The life cycle of Ancylostoma duodenale includes both free-living larval stages in soil and parasitic stages within a human host.
5. Diagnosis typically involves microscopic examination of stool samples to identify hookworm eggs.

Review Questions

• What is the primary route of transmission for Ancylostoma duodenale?
• How does Ancylostoma duodenale cause anemia in infected individuals?
• Which diagnostic method is commonly used to confirm an infection with Ancylostoma duodenale?

Related terms

Necator americanus: A species of hookworm similar to Ancylostoma duodenale but predominantly found in the New World.

Helminthiasis: A disease caused by infestation with parasitic worms such as hookworms.

Stool Examination: A diagnostic technique involving microscopic analysis of fecal matter to detect parasitic infections.